Globe Opens New Store at NAIA Terminal 3 Arrival Section, Elevating Connectivity for Record-Breaking Traveler Volume

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As air travel rebounds strongly, Globe is stepping up to meet inbound demand with the opening of its new store at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 arrival section. Positioned right at the arrivals exit area, the store is designed to give international travelers instant access to mobile connectivity as soon as they land.

The airport processed a historic 52.02 million passengers last year in a report disclosed by NAIA on their website, marking the highest‑ever annual volume. That reflects a surge in travel demand and a recovery beyond pre‑pandemic levels.

With thousands of passengers arriving daily, the new store aims to deliver immediate value and convenience, offering physical SIM cards and eSIM activation, prepaid load top-ups, and bills payment, catering to the diverse needs of international travelers.

To commemorate the store opening, Globe is rolling out special launch promotions from December 15, 2025, to January 31, 2026. Travelers who purchase a Globe Traveler SIM get a free gift such as a portable travel neck pillow and a free Grab voucher.

“Global traveler volume at NAIA has surged to record highs, and we’re making sure every visitor begins their Philippine journey with reliable connectivity,” said Givielle Florida, Head of Globe Prepaid. “Our new NAIA store ensures our brand delivers beyond network services. We enable seamless access to community, mobility and information the moment travelers arrive.”

As Globe Prepaid is the preferred mobile partner for inbound tourists, Globe reinforces its role as a catalyst for effortless connectivity and tourism‑ready service.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/international/traveler-sim.

2GO Forwarding: At the Heart of Customer Trust

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2GO Forwarding enables seamless logistics while creating opportunities for businesses and industries across the Philippines.

2GO, the country’s premier multimodal logistics solutions provider, continues to strengthen its reputation as a reliable local partner of leading international brands and organizations.

2GO Forwarding, the freight forwarding arm of the 2GO Group, operates through a nationwide network that spans 33,000 barangays and delivers scalable logistics for industries such as pharmaceuticals, FMCG, automotive, and events. With access to sea, land, and air transport, the unit provides customers with end-to-end logistics tailored to their operational needs.

Seamless Logistics and Mobility

For restaurant groups with extensive operations across the Visayas and Mindanao, efficient inter-island movement is essential to maintaining stock levels, product freshness, and store stability. Bigby’s Quality Food Corp., a homegrown restaurant group with 26 branches under brands such as Bigby’s Café & Restaurant, Boy Zugba, and The Tuna Bar, has seen significant improvements in its logistics efficiency with 2GO handling its island-to-island deliveries.

Henrik Kelly Yu, CEO of Bigby’s Quality Food Corp., said, “Before, I think the challenges of our shipments were the island-to-island deliveries. But now with 2GO, it’s very convenient. Deliveries to Dumaguete, Bohol, Tacloban, Cebu—it has been very life-changing for our business to have this kind of service.”

Delivering Healthcare with Precision

Pharmaceutical distribution requires efficiency, accuracy, and consistent reliability. For Zuellig Pharma Corporation, the Philippines’ leading distributor of medicines and healthcare products, 2GO Forwarding has become a trusted partner in ensuring life-saving medicines and medical products reach their destinations safely and on time. The partnership has proven vital during peak demand periods, where uninterrupted delivery means uninterrupted access to healthcare.

Paul Sanchez, Director of Zuellig Pharma, said, “When we experienced logistics challenges, 2GO immediately stepped in to ensure our operations remained unhampered and delivery commitments were met. Their professionalism, precision, and ability to manage critical pharmaceutical cargo with utmost care have been instrumental to our mission of safeguarding healthcare access across the country.”

Powering Philippine Sports

Beyond healthcare, 2GO Forwarding also supports the movement of people and equipment for some of the Philippines’ most anticipated international sporting events. As the official logistics partner of IRONMAN Philippines, 2GO provides transport and forwarding solutions that ensure sporting gear, race materials, and participants arrive on time and in full. This capability has made 2GO an integral part of the country’s growing sports tourism industry.

Princess Galura, President and General Manager of Sunrise Events Inc., said, “We are excited to continue our partnership with 2GO, whose end-to-end logistics and travel services help bring our MICE events to life—organized, on time, and seamless. Their reliable support ensures that our equipment arrives where it’s needed and that attendees can travel conveniently across islands. With 2GO, every event delivers a smooth and memorable experience for athletes and spectators alike.”

Operational Excellence

2GO Forwarding’s flexible service offerings have also supported businesses in the agriculture, food manufacturing, and MSME sectors. For the Strawberry-Guyabano Farm and Delibites Concepts Corporation in South Cotabato, 2GO’s transport solutions have helped streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve delivery performance.

Hannah Mamon, the owner, shared that faster transport cut delivery time from four days to two and that direct store deliveries helped eliminate pilferage. She said, “I was able to save on warehousing, shutting down Davao and Cagayan de Oro… dahil sa streamlining na na-address ni 2GO.” She added that 2GO’s Less than Container Load (LCL) service enabled her to ship small packages with clear and predictable rates. “The efficiency and reliability, na pwede mag twice a week o kahit once a week, kaya mabilis ang turnover ng inventory sa operations.”

Commitment to Partners

2GO Forwarding’s track record across industries highlights its ability to adapt to the unique requirements of every client, from healthcare to sports. The business unit remains focused on delivering solutions that enable organizations to make a meaningful impact on the communities they serve.

Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Forwarding said, “We see our role as more than transporting goods—we help businesses expand, communities thrive, and vital services reach the people who need them most. From healthcare and food to sports and MSMEs, we move what matters, ensuring every shipment travels safely and seamlessly across cities and regions. This commitment to enabling growth and enriching lives is at the heart of what we deliver to every partner we serve.”

Know more about our forwarding services, email forwarding@2go.com.ph.

“A Weekend of Everything That Flies" All Set on February 13-15 at New Clark City

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Get ready for a thrilling weekend at the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, packed with hot air balloon rides, paragliding adventures, drone races, paper plane battles, high-flying demos, heart-pounding car drifting, and a buzzing fly market—all in one epic celebration of the skies

Mark your calendars as the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta takes flight on February 13 to 15, 2026, bringing three days of color, energy, and sky-high excitement to New Clark City in Tarlac. This upcoming edition is set to be one of the biggest yet, featuring 22 new special-shaped balloons, the highest number in its history, with pilots flying in from the United Kingdom, United States, Belgium, Netherlands, Macedonia, Switzerland, Germany, and Brazil. Each day of the 2026 edition will close with two crowd favorites: the glowing hot air balloons and a massive 500-drone show lighting up the New Clark City skyline with colorful formations and messages.

(L-R): BCDA Vice President for Public Affairs Leilani Barlongay-Macasaet, BCDA Officer-in-Charge and Senior Vice President for Conversion and Development Group Engr. Mark P. Torres, PSC Commissioner Edward Hayco, Provincial Government of Tarlac Investment Promotions Officer Frances Canlas, PIHABF Founder and Organizer Capt. Joy Roa, and BCDA Vice President for Investment Promotions and Marketing Kenneth R. Peralta

Guests can enjoy world-class action with Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) sanctioned paragliding and First-Person View (FPV) drone racing competitions, featuring participants from at least six countries, including the UAE, Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, and the Philippines. More competitors are registering following the announcement that the Airsports Federation of Asia (AFA) will hold its first 2026 board meeting in New Clark City during the balloon fiesta.

Adding even more energy to the experience is the fast-rising Soccer Drone competition, quickly gaining global popularity, with a demo court for visitors to try it out and hopes for the Fiesta to host a world championship in the future. School teams from Far Eastern Air Transport Incorporated University (FEATI University) and Philippine Air Transport and Training Services College of Aeronautics (PATTS College of Aeronautics) are forming their respective teams to compete, with the winning team set to represent the Philippines in international events and competitions around the world. A Paper Plane competition, open to all ages, invites everyone to join in the fun, while throughout the day, RC airplane demos, aerial dogfights, and kite shows fill the skies with excitement.

Filipino inventor Kyxz Mendiola will also demonstrate his homebuilt manned flying drone, showing himself flying inside it, a glimpse at the future of personal air travel, as it takes flight across the grounds for all to see. Ultralights will do their usual formation flying around the fiesta grounds. On the ground, guests can enjoy car drifting, browse through a lively Fly Market, and savor Pampanga’s well-loved dishes along with other popular food choices.

With the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) stepping in as a strong supporter, these efforts are expected to boost Aero Sports and draw more non-traditional tourism into the country. The PSC has begun supporting our paragliding and paramotor athletes for the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, and these same paramotors will be showcasing their skills during the event.

“For over 25 years, this event has been our way of sharing the magic of flight with every Filipino,” shared Capt. Joy Roa, expressing his excitement for the 26th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. “We’re thrilled to bring even more experiences that inspire, amaze, and open doors to the world of aviation.”

Ms. Frances Canlas, Investment Promotions Officer of the Provincial Government of Tarlac, expressed the local government unit’s full support to the Balloon Fiesta. She says, “This stands as a beacon of innovative sporting events and ushers in a renewed vibrancy as it soars once again in the province of Tarlac at New Clark City. This exciting event is expected to catalyze transformative economic growth, drawing thousands of visitors into the province and driving demand across the hospitality, culinary, transportation, and experiential sectors, while strengthening resilient logistics and supply chains province-wide.”

Engr. Mark P. Torres, Senior Vice President and Officer-In-Charge of the Bases Conversion and Development Bases and Development Authority (BCDA), noted, "As we prepare for this return, we envision a festival that is not only bigger and more vibrant, but also more inclusive—one that brings benefit to our communities and highlights Clark's readiness as a premier tourism and investment destination."

For those interested in a career in aviation, Capt. Joy explained that the Fiesta will feature passionate and successful professionals sharing their journeys. “We want to inspire the next generation of aviators by showing them how we started and what it takes to succeed in this industry,” he said. Attendees will learn about the adventures, challenges, and triumphs of working in a fast-paced field that offers strong career potential and high ROI. “Aviation offers excellent opportunities abroad, competitive salaries, and a chance to see the world while doing something you love,” Capt. Joy added. The lineup includes air traffic controllers, aircraft mechanics, flight attendants, safety inspectors, civilian and military pilots, and many more ready to share their stories.

With every flight and stunt over the years, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta has captivated audiences with unforgettable moments, from the “100 Years of Flying” tribute and aircraft rallies from across Asia to breathtaking performances by the Breitling Jet Team, the Wing Walkers, and the daring aerobatics by Mark Jefferies of the Global Stars team. The Fiesta has also thrilled spectators with annual skydiving exhibitions and tandem jumps, hosted Ms. Aviation competitions, and featured ABS-CBN concerts alongside the iconic hot air balloon night glow. Cultural exchanges with countries like Turkey, complete with traditional dancers, porcelain artists, and carpet weavers, have enriched the experience, while renowned Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor contributed designs for posters and souvenir programs. Indoor aviation career seminars have long inspired students to pursue careers in the industry, providing insights from experienced pilots, air traffic controllers, flight attendants, safety inspectors, and mechanics. These diverse experiences, from high-flying stunts and concerts to educational programs and cultural showcases, have become the very soul and heart of “A Weekend of Everything that Flies.”

Discover more at www.philballoonfest.net and stay connected by following Philippine International Hot Air Balloon (@philballoonfest) on Facebook www.facebook.com/pihabf, Instagram www.instagram.com/philballoonfest, and Tiktok www.tiktok.com/@philballoonfiesta.

Holiday Travel Season Is In! Here’s Your Ultimate Checklist for a Trip That’s Worth It

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For many of us, a holiday trip isn’t just a break – it’s the moment we look forward to all year, the hard-earned vacation after months of juggling work. But as every traveler knows, holiday travel often brings added stress. With hotel and flight bookings filling up fast, experiences selling out quickly, and larger crowds of travelers everywhere, the trip you’ve been anticipating can easily become stressful.

This year, make it different. A truly worthwhile holiday trip starts with being prepared for everything. As you start getting ready, check out these four pro tips to make sure that every second of this long-awaited trip is worth it.

1. Arrive earlier than normal during the holiday rush

With reports of long lines at the bag drop and longer queues at immigration, traveling during the holidays calls for being just a little bit earlier than usual – and doing everything you can ahead of time.

Check in online through your airline’s app or website, complete your e-travel in advance, and keep all your documents organized in one secure, easy-access pouch with digital copies also ready and saved on your phone.  A few extra steps of preparation can save you a lot of airport stress later.

2. Leave a little room for spontaneous moments

Theme parks, ski passes, and city tours sell out fast in December. Of course, it helps as early as possible – but sometimes, even that can’t be helped. Here’s a pro tip: when planning your itinerary for a city or area, secure at least one main activity—the non-negotiable experience you really want to do—then leave space for spontaneous adventures and exploring on your own.

3. Monitor the weather, and pack for it

Experiencing a “white Christmas” is on many people’s bucket lists this year. If you’re flying to Seoul, Nagoya, New York, or any other snowy destination, make sure you’ve packed your thermals, layers, and warm socks. Also, have a coat ready at the plane, so you don’t get too cold upon arrival!

4. Use GCash to pay for an ultimate guilt-free, shock-free spending holiday

One of the biggest stressors while traveling is managing expenses. Bill shock from credit cards, unexpectedly high exchange rates, hidden fees, and overspending that you only realize weeks later can quickly disrupt a trip meant to be relaxing. This year, you can avoid all that with GCash and by following its simple shock-proof, worry-proof shopping method: Scan-Swipe-Tap.

 When you pay with GCash abroad, you gain real-time control over your spending, enjoy low forex rates that update instantly in the app, avoid hidden service fees, and benefit from fast, convenient transactions all throughout your trip. Here’s how:

Scan: Pay with GCash to Scan to Pay at merchants abroad. Simply look for the Alipay+ logo when paying in-store or ordering at restaurants. This way, you don’t need to scramble for cash, and you can even unlock exclusive promos along the way!

Swipe: You can also pay with the GCash Visa Card abroad, especially for the bigger items you’ve saved up for. Unlike credit cards with high FX fees, there are no additional charges with the GCash Visa Card. Your transactions are automatically recorded in-app, so you always see how much you’ve spent – no bill shock.

Tap: For Android users, take your payments even further with the new GCash Tap to Pay feature. Just tap your phone on any NFC-enabled terminal and pay within seconds – perfect for major shopping hubs and seamless checkouts in crowded places where convenience is key.

Don’t forget these 4 pro-tips and make sure you Scan–Swipe–Tap for a trip that’s easier, lighter, and truly worth it—just as a holiday should be.

2GO Revamps Escolta Branch, Introduces First Retail Outlet with Cafe 2GO

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2GO, the Philippines’ most integrated logistics and travel solutions provider, has revamped its 2GO Escolta Branch located at the ground floor of AIC Center along Escolta Street, Binondo, Manila. The branch remained fully operational throughout the renovation, ensuring uninterrupted service while upgrading the space to better support the growing demand for travel, cargo, and express services in one of the country’s most historic commercial districts.

(L–R) Raymond Morales, Operating Manager, FedEx Philippines; Roland Sunga, Assistant Vice President for Food and Beverage, Ancillary, and Hotel Operations, 2GO Travel; Blessie Cruz, Business Unit Head, 2GO Retail; Rico Medina, Acting Senior Manager for Delivery and Pick-up Operations; and Janice Bugarin, Vice President and Head of Procurement, 2GO Group, Inc.

The branch enhancement marks the introduction of the first 2GO retail outlet with Cafe 2GO, a fully owned and branded café concept previously available exclusively on board 2GO vessels. Bringing Cafe 2GO to a ground retail environment provides customers with a more comfortable and welcoming space to lounge, wait, and conduct business while completing their transactions.

As part of the revamp, the Escolta branch also features a dedicated Cafe 2GO Training Room, designed to support onboarding, skills development, and continuous learning for 2GO team members. The facility serves as a central venue for barista training and capability-building programs across the retail network.

The upgraded space is also designed to function as a convenient meeting and collaboration hub, allowing customers, MSMEs, and partners to hold discussions, coordinate shipments, and make business decisions while availing of 2GO’s integrated logistics and travel services.

“Cafe 2GO was created to elevate the overall travel experience of our customers and bringing it into a retail setting allows us to extend that same experience on ground,” said Roland Sunga, Assistant Vice President for Food and Beverage, Ancillary, and Hotel Operations of 2GO Travel. “The dedicated training space enables us to continuously develop our baristas, refine our offerings, and ensure consistent quality across all touchpoints.”

Located in the heart of Binondo, the Escolta branch plays a vital role in supporting trade and MSMEs by facilitating the efficient movement of goods such as machinery, spare parts, textiles, and wholesale merchandise across cities and regions nationwide.

“This renovated location is more than a retail branch—it is a hub for MSME growth,” said Blessie Cruz, Business Unit Head of 2GO Retail. “Through this space, the introduction of Cafe 2GO, and our enhanced facilities, we aim to elevate customer experience while creating more opportunities for the communities we serve.”

For inquiries about 2GO services, partnerships, or training programs, interested parties may email retail@2go.com.ph.

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Eastwood Richmonde Hotel Celebrates 15 Years of Homegrown Hospitality

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Eastwood Richmonde’s 15^th Anniversary Celebration

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel (ERH) recently commemorated its 15th anniversary alongside its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony through a simple yet heartfelt gathering of longtime patrons, media partners, and esteemed guests. Anchored on the theme “15 and Beyond: Forward Filipino Hospitality,” the occasion was an homage to the hotel’s proud homegrown roots and a humble celebration of the hotel’s accomplishments through the years as it embraces more initiatives that promote our country’s culture.

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts Cluster  General Manager, Jun Justo

Jun Justo, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts NCR+ Cluster General Manager and ERH General Manager, opened the event by recounting how ERH set the blueprint for Megaworld Corporation and its township developments by being the first hotel in its very first mixed-use community, Eastwood City. The AVP that followed then paid tribute to the hotel’s dedicated employees, or Enrichers as they are called, and how through their hard work and dedication, have shaped Richmonde’s distinct warm and accommodating service.

Megaworld Corp. President & CEO  Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso  

The night continued with congratulatory messages from the distinguished guests of honor which included Megaworld Corporation President and CEO Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, Department of Tourism Undersecretary Maria Rica Bueno, Head of the Investment Services Division of Quezon City Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office Jong Sumpiaco, representing Hon. Mayor Joy Belmonte, and Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts (MHR) Cleofe Albiso. They acknowledged ERH’s influence on local tourism, community development, and the hospitality landscape, highlighting its contributions to the city’s economy and cultural preservation through MHR’s very own unique and authentic Filipino brand of service, the Sampaguita, and its implementation of sustainable and inclusive tourism practices.

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts Managing Director Cleofe Albiso 

Capping the anniversary program was the celebratory toast led by MHR Group General Manager Art Boncato, followed by the traditional countdown to the lighting of the hotel’s Christmas tree and its custom-made Sampaguita-inspired Capiz lantern to officially signal the start of the holiday season in the hotel.

 Harana group composed of La Salle Kundirana alumni

Providing delightfully nostalgic entertainment was Harana, a group of singing professionals and alumni of La Salle’s Kundirana. Their renditions of well-loved OPM songs and Christmas carols added to the festive atmosphere.

 Department of Tourism Undersecretary Maria Rica Bueno

  Quezon City Head of Investment Services Division Jong Sumpiaco

The celebration then shifted to Eastwood Café+Bar, where a meticulously crafted six-course dinner prepared by MHR Corporate Chef Panky Lopez and ERH Executive Chef Peter Paluga awaited the guests. The menu included Salmon Sinigang Steak and Caldereta Tiger Pie, just some of the hotel’s creative and modern takes on all-time favorite Filipino dishes.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

As Richmonde looks ahead to the next 15 years and more, it reaffirms its commitment to delivering meaningful and mindful stays, enriching experiences, and purposeful and thoughtful hospitality that is welcoming to all.

2GO Deploys E-Trucks to Advance Environmentally Conscious Logistics

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2GO, the country’s leading multimodal logistics solutions provider, has officially deployed its first batch of electric trucks, marking a major step toward greener and more sustainable logistics operations.

L–R: Ethel Concepcion, Head of Corporate Marketing and Communications, 2GO Group, Inc.; Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head, 2GO Forwarding; Allain Dick, Board Director, Eclimo Electric Management Inc.; Elizier Santiago, Senior Assistant Vice President and Head of Operations, 2GO Forwarding.

Sustainability has long been at the core of 2GO’s operations. The company has utilized electric forklifts in its warehouses, ensured its land transportation fleet meets Euro 4 emission standards, and integrated solar panels to harness renewable energy across key facilities. Eco-friendly packaging solutions are standard, and shipping operations continue to provide one of the most environmentally responsible methods for long-distance cargo transport in the country. The addition of e-trucks further strengthens 2GO’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions while maintaining operational efficiency.

“These new electric trucks represent more than just innovation; they are a reflection of 2GO’s long-standing commitment to sustainability,” said Faye Alonzo, 2GO Forwarding Business Unit Head. “Every step we take, from warehouse operations to the roads, is guided by our responsibility to the environment. With e-trucks, we can move goods more efficiently while significantly lowering our carbon footprint, proving that logistics and sustainability can go hand in hand.”

2GO E-Truck Drives Greener Logistics with 100% Electric Power.

The new electric vehicles are designed to handle high-volume freight, offering quieter, cleaner, and more energy-efficient operations. For 2GO Forwarding, this means faster delivery times, reduced fuel costs, and a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across urban and intercity routes.

With this milestone, 2GO continues to lead the logistics industry in eco-conscious innovations, reinforcing its role as a responsible partner for businesses and communities alike.

For inquiries on 2GO Forwarding services or sustainable logistics solutions, please email forwarding@2go.com.ph.

Go on a Sleigh Ride of Flavours and Experience the “12 Days of Christmas” at The Bistro at Discovery Samal

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Discovery Samal is kicking off the holiday season in style at The Bistro with a night designed to ignite the spirit of celebration. The Bistro: A Taste of the Holidays invites guests on a delicious journey through a playful tasting menu inspired by the nostalgia of a classic Christmas carol where each dish tells its own tale, blending creativity and festive flair to set the tone for a season of warmth, wonder, and culinary delight.

Guests start with A Partridge in a Pear Tree, tender and succulent quail nestled on caramelized leeks, rounded out by pear purée and sage-chestnut glaze. A whisper of prosciutto crisp and a rose-hued tuile give it a soft sparkle on the plate. Two Turtle Doves follows with smoked duck roulade resting against a lemon blini, brightened by cherry reduction and a delicate tuile that seems almost too fragile to touch.

Moving deeper into the sequence, Three French Hens draws from the richness of French cooking: sous vide chicken, truffle-touched potato foam, and red wine sauce that clings to the fork. A crisp chicken garnish and a golden egg yolk gel turn it into a tiny display of indulgence. Four Calling Birds shifts the tone again with ostrich confit beneath a golden craquelin crust, softened by chicken liver mousse and accented with poached quail egg and shards of filo that crackle gently.

The midpoint arrives with Five Golden Rings, a shimmering spread of cured salmon, citrus, and prawn tartare arranged under a thin mango tuile, the plate glowing with bright, celebratory hues. Six Geese a-Laying leans into luxury with a foie gras brûlée paired with sautéed wild mushrooms and a crown of caviar, softened by edible flowers and another rose tuile that quietly ties it to earlier dishes.

Dessert drifts in early with Seven Swans a-Swimming, where white mousse meets strawberry-mango compote and a dark chocolate swan perched above caviar tones of black, red, and white. It’s more whimsical than sweet, though it manages to be both. Eight Maids a-Milking keeps the playful notes going with yogurt mousse, milk foam, and Earl Grey tea caviar, topped with crisp chocolate that adds a subtle snap.

As the evening builds, Nine Ladies Dancing puts together herb-baked salmon under a crisp dome, surrounded by beetroot and herb foams, pea shoots, and a dandelion flower that adds a tiny flourish of movement. Ten Lords a-Leaping offers the boldest moment of the night with grilled ostrich, lamb, and A3 wagyu, each dressed with a sesame rub that leaves a warm depth lingering on the palate.

The last two dishes return to sweetness. Eleven Pipers Piping presents churros with hazelnut cream, chocolate ganache, mint, gold flakes, and red velvet crumbs, dusted with cinnamon sugar that clings to the fingertips. Finally, Twelve Drummers Drumming closes the journey with duck croquette tucked into baked sweet dough, enriched with foie gras and tartufata cream, then finished with gold dust and edible flowers.

The Bistro’s holiday experience, shaped through these twelve small stories, turns the familiar song into something you can taste. For guests looking for a holiday outing that feels a little more intimate than the season usually allows, The Bistro: A Taste of the Holidays is priced at Php 4,800 net per person and is available this December 24, 2025.

For more information, email fb@discoverysamal.com or call +63 084 308 2998.

OPPO and the Department of Tourism Forge Milestone Collaboration to Showcase the Beauty of the Philippines

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Leading global smart device brand OPPO and the Department of Tourism (DOT) have officially sealed a landmark partnership to strengthen the local tourism industry by showcasing scenic Philippine destinations through the lens of OPPO’s most innovative and cutting-edge smartphone technologies.

Under the banner “OPPO Loves The Philippines,” the collaboration reflects a shared vision to inspire the world to discover countless reasons to Love the Philippines through stunning, authentic, and AI-empowered visual storytelling.

It aims to highlight the country’s diverse and often unexplored destinations—including less-known freshwater and underwater attractions—through captivating imagery and user-generated content across digital platforms.

“OPPO Philippines believes technology should serve people and strengthen communities. This landmark partnership with the Department of Tourism allows us to fulfill our desire to uplift lives. We are here to help more people see the Philippines the way Filipinos do,” said Joanarc Sales, Associate Marketing Director of OPPO Philippines.

The partnership will leverage OPPO’s creator community and content production expertise through targeted skill-building initiatives for the DOT network—equipping tourism teams with both the tools and knowledge to champion tourism as a digital movement that celebrates the country.

“The ceremonial signing between the Department of Tourism and OPPO honors and symbolizes our united commitment to pursue tourism advocacies that ultimately contribute to nation-building. This partnership is anchored on the DOT’s advocacies of sustainability, responsible tourism, inclusiveness in our tourism promotion and development, and effective communications,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.

As part of this initiative, OPPO will equip the DOT’s Tourist Rest Areas with advanced technologies to enhance convenience, safety, and the overall traveler experience. Tourism Information Desks will become one-stop hubs offering real-time updates and assistance through OPPO’s IoT solutions, while Hop-On Hop-Off Tours will benefit from smarter, more seamless mobility innovations powered by OPPO’s smart ecosystem.

For OPPO, the partnership reinforces its broader commitment to nation-building and cultural appreciation. By enabling local content creators, tourism workers, and communities to produce compelling digital narratives, OPPO aims to spark renewed pride in the Philippines’ rich natural and cultural heritage.

This collaboration marks a new chapter where innovation meets passion for place—where every photo, every story, and every shared moment helps the world deepen its appreciation for the wonders of the Philippines.

For more updates, visit www.oppo.com/ph/ or follow OPPO Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

Experience and “See What Others Can’t” at the Santa Maria Music & Film Festival (SMMFF)

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SMMFF 2025 welcomes 39 finalists, handpicked from the festival’s largest and most diverse pool yet, representing 17 countries presents a vibrant mix of narrative films, documentaries, experimental works, musical stories, and cultural pieces you can explore, experience and “See What Others Can’t”!

About the Santa Maria Music & Film Festival (SMMFF)

Set high above the clouds on the mountaintops of Santa Maria, Laguna and framed by the Sierra Madre mountain range, the Santa Maria Music & Film Festival (SMMFF) offers a rare experience: cinema and music under the stars, surrounded by nature, and rooted in stories from around the world.

Since its inaugural run in December 2023, SMMFF has pioneered a one-of-a-kind fusion of film, music, and the outdoors inviting audiences to step away from the city and into a creative sanctuary where they can truly “See What Others Can’t.”

What began with just seven international short films, live music, and a close-knit community has now grown into a globally-reaching platform. For 2025, SMMFF proudly presents 39 films from 17 countries, reflecting bold storytelling and diverse artistic voices across continents.

ORIGIN STORY: HOW SMMFF BEGAN

The Santa Maria Music & Film Festival is the brainchild of Jennifer Maliwanag. What started as her passion project, part student initiative, part creative pursuit has since evolved into a cultural tradition.

Jenn’s vision was simple but bold: to create a platform for discovering the unseen, exploring the unexplored, uplifting every voice, and celebrating every story.

In 2023, she launched Santa Maria’s first-ever open-air mountaintop film festival on her family’s mountain property, transforming the space into a creative sanctuary above the clouds. Despite the challenges of staging an event in such a remote and elevated landscape, her mission was clear: to show how perseverance, community, and storytelling can bring Filipino talent to the international stage. That inaugural year laid the foundation for what SMMFF is now becoming.

THE 2025 EDITION

Now on its third year, SMMFF 2025 welcomes 39 finalists, handpicked from the festival’s largest and most diverse pool yet, representing 17 countries including Australia, Austria, Canada, the Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, the Philippines, Poland, the Russian Federation, Singapore, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

These 39 finalists also serve as the quarterly winners, representing a vibrant mix of narrative films, documentaries, experimental works, musical stories, and cultural pieces. While all 39 earned their place through the quarterly selection, only the final winners chosen from among them will be screened at the festival, showcasing the strongest films of the year.

At the festival, this signature open-air venue will screen the music entries, the standout films, and the winners that rose above the competition.

Quarter I Finalists

●       Visions of Her, directed by Mark F. Roling & Erik G. Voss from the United States. “Grief blurs the line between memory and reality. Visions of Her follows a man retracing the steps of a love lost and discovering the quiet strength to let go.”

●       K-Indi IDOL, directed by Soo Sung Lee from Korea. “How far would you go to chase a dream? K-Indi IDOL follows Seung-hyun, a young woman who dares to break barriers in an industry that tries to box her in. Disguised as a man to join a male idol audition, she enters a world where performance is survival and identity becomes both mask and mirror.”

●       Breaking Out, directed by David Glass from the United States. “Raw emotion collides with nature’s force. Breaking Out takes viewers on a powerful psychological journey blending turbulent piano improvisation, striking imagery, and unfiltered human feeling into a spellbinding short film.”

●       Madame Donalda, directed by Alan Marcus from the United Kingdom. “A single night can change everything. Madame Donalda brings to life the electrifying moment in 1905 when Canadian soprano Pauline Lightstone Donalda rose from understudy to international star, sharing the stage with the legendary Enrico Caruso.”

●       Jamcation: The Chronicles of Now Defunkt, directed by Scott Macklin from the United States. “What happens when music keeps a family connected across continents? Now Defunkt follows a collective of friends and family who, after creating two vinyl albums apart, finally come together to jam, play, and perform live for the first time. Through JamCation their unique blend of jamming and vacation they rediscover rhythm, connection, and joy.”

●       Lucky Night, directed by Eduardo Mendoza from the United States. “A freezing New England night. A missing $215 million lottery ticket. Rey, a first-generation American, is forced to confront the weight of his dreams and the pressure to succeed as he searches for what could change his life forever.”

●       A Neighborhood Odyssey, directed by Carlos Balvin from the United States. “A group of high school boys grew up making movies together. Now, with only one year left before graduation and life pulling them in different directions, they set out to make one last film, a final love letter to their friendship and shared dreams.”

●       Cowboy Boots, directed by Eric Delehoy from the United States. “Ack, a gay cowboy from Nebraska, steps into a San Francisco gay club for the first time—only to find that the “promised land” he imagined is far more complicated than he expected.”

Quarter II Finalists

●       Greensky Bluegrass – Find Ourselves Lost, directed by René Huemer from Austria. “An intimate black-and-white documentary following US band Greensky Bluegrass as they record their album in Iceland. Through a raw biographical lens, it unveils their insecurities, creative struggles, and the beauty of embracing vulnerability all set against Iceland’s stunning natural backdrop.”

●       The Cost of a Dream, directed by Adrian Pucheu from the Dominican Republic. “Daniel, a humble merengue drummer from a small Dominican village, crosses paths with Isabel, the mayor’s niece who has just arrived from Colombia. Captivated by her, he decides to join the village’s musical battle torn between following his heart and staying true to his passion for music.”

●       PAPmusic – Animation for Fashion, directed by Leikié from Italy. “An animation film that brings fashion to life. A young Italian fashion house launches a bold new collection and sparks fly between HIM, the director, and HER, the designer. Romance, rivalry, and playful chaos unfold in a fast-paced, music-filled story.”

●       I Miss You, Pluto, directed by Bella Reeves from the United States. “An emotional short film about a timid musician who struggles to create after her best friend, Pluto, leaves. As she learns to accept a new chapter in her life, she finds solace at the Marina and slowly rediscovers her creative voice.”

●       Bam Bam: The Sister Nancy Story, directed by Alison Duke from Canada. “The Sister Nancy Story dives deep into the legacy of Sister Nancy, blending dynamic tour performances, archival footage, and interviews with industry icons like Janelle Monáe, Young Guru, and Pete Rock. A fun and empowering documentary that celebrates music, resilience, and staying true to yourself.”

●       The Man with the Microphone: A European Tour Documentary, directed by B Menace from the United States. “An up-and-coming singer from Connecticut travels to Europe to be the opening act on a European tour and soon discovers the grit, heart, and challenges that come with being an independent artist chasing a dream.”

Quarter III Finalists

●       The Child Within, directed by Daniel Troia from the United States. “Feeling detached from the noise of modern life, Daniel Troia sets out on a soul-searching bicycle journey across Europe, a quest to rediscover his inner child and the beauty of human connection.”

●       The Meaning of a Ritual, directed by Natalie MacMahon from Germany. “A world that moves too fast to notice the quiet magic of existence, two souls collide, one deeply connected to nature, the other lost within her own mind. A gifted young plant doctor, blessed with extrasensory perception, meets a reclusive artist whose pain has locked her away from the world. As their lives intertwine, wounds resurface, but so do long-buried truths. Together, they rediscover what it truly means to heal, to grow, and to live.”

●       Time Before Kevin, directed by Raine Gado from the Philippines. “Set in a near future, Kevin, a young scientist haunted by fragments of his past, builds a time machine to revisit the moments that shaped him. As he confronts his younger self and the weight of suppressed truth, Kevin must decide: will he relive the past, or rewrite it?”

●       I Am a Halo-Halo, directed by Daniel Buhat from the Philippines. “Ethan, a third-culture Filipino and aspiring chef, returns to the Philippines for the first time to visit his Lola Luningning. Struggling to reconnect with his roots, he takes on his grandmother’s challenge to prepare the traditional noche buenafeast. Along the way, he encounters a colorful mix of Filipino characters including a wise halo-halo vendor who helps him discover who he truly is.”

●       Second Chance, directed by India Anne Mitchell from the United States. “A young filmmaker, moved by a troubling event at school, turns her lens toward the world of Juvenile Hall and Court. Through the heartfelt story of a young offender and his parents alongside the voices of a judge, attorneys, and a probation officer, Second Chance explores the power of understanding, compassion, and hope for those society too often overlooks.”

●       Break the Silence, directed by Dax Phelan from the United States. “Break the Silence is a powerful one-minute Public Service Announcement that encourages those struggling with mental health, substance use, and more to seek help through the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. A poignant reminder that reaching out is a sign of strength and that help is always within reach.”

●       Between three worlds - Robert Zorn: Percussionist, Farmer and Composer from Tyrol, directed by Sina Moser from Austria. “The documentary provides an insight into the life of the musician, who in his free time breeds sheep, produces honey from his own hive and enjoys working with wood.”

●       Love Wins in the USA, directed by Sidney Gil from the United States. “Love Wins in the USA” is a contemporary pop anthem by emerging artist Nova RainShadow, released in early March 2025. Blending heartfelt lyricism with American influences, the song delivers a powerful message. Its chorus, driven by an uplifting melody, reinforces the idea that love transcends barriers and remains resilient despite societal divides."

●       Say His Name, directed by Billy Joseph, Jr. from the United States. “As a fractured family gathers to confront the dark grip of addiction and unravel decades of buried secrets, they must face the haunting reality that the cycle of guilt, shame, and betrayal they've inherited may be impossible to break.”

●       MEMRA, directed by Yulia Travnikova from the Russian Federation. “The film tells the story of a musical project called "MEMRA" and the making of a conceptual music album by the founders of a network of private kindergartens, Ivan and Maria Sorokin. The album was created to support people with autism spectrum disorders.”

●       Une Réflexion, directed by M.Y.R.A. Entertainment from Singapore. “A semi-animated video art piece portraying a summer evening sky reflected in a lake in Quebec. Borrowing the patience of a fisherman, the eye of a painter and the wonderment of a small child, UNE RÉFLEXION encapsulates the peaceful interplay of sunlit and dark clouds during a fleeting moment in nature and time. Carried by a Solfeggio frequency, the micro short invites to an audio-visual meditation.”

Quarter IV Finalists

●       Cotton Candy, directed by Jesse Klick from the United States. "The concept of this song is rooted in the idea of an unending cycle. Loving someone who can neither commit nor fully walk away. Represented by the sky - we're together during the day, he leaves at sunset, he comes back at night, and is gone with the sunrise. As the sky transitions, so does he.”

●       To Be Anders Widmark, directed by Peter Östlund from Sweden. “About a pianist, his music and his challenges. A musical journey between different genres where everything is possible.”

●       Image Dance, directed by John Dawson from the United States. “An experimental film made by Colorado artist and filmmaker John Dawson in 2023. This short film is 100% hand made by drawing, painting and scratching directly onto 16mm and Super 8 film stock.”

●       First Refusal, directed by Courtney Sanello from the United States. “In a series of surreal visuals that ebb and flow like a fever dream, we follow them on exploration of grief’s complexity. They gradually come to realize an important truth: in order to truly heal and find solace, they must learn to let go.”

●       American Pot Story: Oaksterdam, directed by Ravit Markus & Dan Katzir from the United States. “A documentary about how change transpires in America. The account of "a small group of concerned committed citizens" who took a huge risk in order to bring about a massive shift in public perception. Not just an important historical chronicle of a campaign that brought into the mainstream a taboo topic, it’s also an inspiring reminder of how democracy can work when people come together in an effort to fulfill our pledge to liberty and justice for all.”

●       Reborn, directed by Ken Izumisawa from Japan. “Dr. Katayama, who commissions murders for patients suffering from incurable diseases, is contacted by Noriko, a girl with suicidal thoughts. Dr. Katayama has strong doubts towards medical treatment that forces patients to live, and has been committing commissioned murders out of his own righteousness, but he is conflicted by Noriko's request.”

●       Castle in the Air, directed by Jess D'Aguanno from Australia. “A young girl caught between her reality and dreams.”

●       Clout Chaser, directed by Lubomir Atan from the United States. "Two girls in a fierce race to get to Star2 and his riches. They hurdle over a series of blocks and use supernatural powers to battle each other to reach him in a room guarded by a golden dragon and Buddha where he sits on a throne in front of hundreds of gold bars.”

●       The World of UConn Stamford’s Campus Library, directed by Dorian Robinson from the United States. “The World of UConn Stamford’s Campus Library invites students to discover everything the library offers, from study zones and research support to tech resources and collaborative spaces. Designed as an informative student advertisement, it highlights how the library makes academic life easier, more efficient, and even inspiring. Whether you need a quiet corner, expert guidance, or a place to team up with classmates, this film shows why the UConn Stamford Library is every student’s essential campus partner.”

●       Inspire Me, directed by Geoffrey Fighiera from France. “A professional oboist is at work when he realizes that his music is connected to his muse: a ballet dancer. He decides to play with her.”

●       Chance Encounters, directed by Hasi Eldib from Canada. “Chance Encounters documents a one-person show of the same name by Juno award-winning musician and interdisciplinary artist Jesse Stewart. Combining storytelling and innovative music performed on a variety of unusual instruments, the film explores the profound impact that fleeting interactions with strangers can have on us.”

●       Guiding Light, directed by India Anne Mitchell from the United States. “Through the compelling interviews of the lead prosecutor, the defense attorney and the police chief, “Guiding Light” tells the story of a young teen (Polly Hannah Klaas) in a small town in America who was kidnapped from her bedroom during a slumber party while her family was in the house. In "Guiding Light", India Mitchell, a teen growing up in the same town thirty years later brings a fresh perspective and highlights the importance of the legacy of this case to the continuing endeavor to keep children safe.”

●       Life in Tandem, directed by Joseph Litzinge & Mia Grimes from the United States. “After a member of the "freestyle canoe dancing" community suffers a tragic accident and unimaginable loss, his fellow canoe enthusiasts work in tandem to help him through his emotional and physical trauma to recover and get back in his canoe.”

WHY ATTEND SMMFF 2025

A Unique Setting

Held at the Santa Maria Open Air Cinema, the festival features breathtaking ridgeline views and crisp mountain air, an outdoor experience unlike anywhere else in the Philippines.

Nestled atop the Sierra Madre ridgeline, the venue opens to sweeping views of Mt. Banahaw, Mt. Cristobal, Mt. Sembrano, Laguna de Bay, and the Pililla windmills a natural panorama that makes every screening feel cinematic even before the films begin.

A Creative Community

Whether you’re an artist, filmmaker, musician, or simply curious, SMMFF is where people gather to discover fresh perspectives and stories that challenge, surprise, and inspire.

A Broad Spectrum of Stories

From independent shorts to student films, global documentaries to experimental music videos, SMMFF champions storytellers from all genres and backgrounds.

A Curated Outdoor Experience

Organizers guide guests through travel logistics, weather expectations, accessibility, and mountaintop-friendly festival etiquette to ensure a seamless visit.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Date & Time:

December 6, 2025 · 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Venue:

Santa Maria Open Air Cinema

143 Summit

Brgy. Pao-o, Santa Maria, Laguna

Tickets:

Free with advance registration. Limited seating.

What to Bring:

Layers or a light jacket, refillable bottle for plastic-free hydration stations, and comfortable shoes fit for a mountain environment.

 

THE ORGANIZING COMMITTEE

Jennifer Maliwanag – Festival Director

A multi-awarded director, photographer, and entrepreneur, Jenn is the heart behind SMMFF. Driven by passion and a deep love for storytelling, she pushes Filipino creativity forward while shaping a festival where every voice, no matter how small, is welcomed, valued, and celebrated.

Rex Lopez – Producer & Creative Lead

An art-based creative and former multinational Creative Director, Rex brings the sharp eye of a producer and the insight of a film critic to SMMFF. As co-founder of Psyops8 and BlackOps Studios Asia, he has worked on global projects including Netflix’s Maria and Amazon Prime’s SellBlock. He now serves as an SMMFF jury member, championing emerging talent.

Jerico Maliwanag – Film Creator & Communications Lead

Co-owner of World Cup Café at 143 Summit, Jerico brings a sharp creative instinct shaped by years of hands-on storytelling, film creation, and editing. As the Operations Lead at Stories We Tell Agency, he further hones his eye for detail and experience in managing creative projects. He helps shape the festival’s identity from visual cohesion to on-ground experience design, and serves as an SMMFF jury member dedicated to spotlighting the next generation of filmmakers.

LOOKING AHEAD

With the 2025 edition of the Santa Maria Music & Film Festival, the organizers reaffirm their commitment to shaping SMMFF into more than just an annual event. It is becoming a growing tradition, a meeting point for creatives, nature-lovers, and storytellers alike. A home for artists and explorers, SMMFF continues to remind audiences to look deeper and See What Others Can’t.